Andrei Arshavin’s proposed move to Arsenal took another twist last night when Zenit St Petersburg claimed that they had agreed a fee for the Russia forward and that the only obstacle to a deal was the player’s personal terms. However, Arsenal, who have had a £12 million bid turned down, said they had received no official confirmation that a revised offer had been accepted by the Russian club, who value Arshavin at closer to £20 million.
Zenit said last night: “The fundamental understanding over the transfer of the player has been achieved between the clubs. The basic obstacle in realising the transaction is Andrei Arshavin’s personal requirements.”
Arshavin, 27, shone for Russia at Euro 2008 but his financial demands have proved the stumbling block for many suitors. He has 18 months left on his contract and is thought to earn at least £60,000 a week, which would be at the higher end of Arsenal’s wage structure.
Dead certs
Chelsea are expected to complete the signing of Marco Storari as a replacement for Carlo Cudicini, who joined Tottenham Hotspur on a free transfer yesterday, after the goalkeeper has a medical on Thursday.
The Italian has spent most of his career playing outside Serie A. Storari joined AC Milan two years ago, but has since spent time on loan at Levante, Cagliari and, this season, Fiorentina. The 32-year-old, who has been called up to the Italy squad but never received a cap, is expected to move to Stamford Bridge on loan until the end of the season.
Juventus have approached Chelsea about signing Florent Malouda on loan, with a view to taking the France winger on a permanent deal in the summer. Malouda has failed to impress since moving from Lyons 18 months ago. Fiorentina have said that they would like to sign Branislav Ivanovic, the Chelsea defender.
Portsmouth have strengthened their midfield by signing Hayden Mullins and Pelé from West Ham United and Porto respectively. Pelé, a Portugal Under-21 player, has joined on loan, with an option to buy, from the Portuguese club after one season playing for Inter Milan. Mullins will cost Portsmouth £1 million.
Bolton have signed Mark Davies from Wolverhampton Wanderers for an undisclosed fee. The midfield player, who was on loan at Leicester City this season, has signed a 4½-year deal. Ben Wright, a 20-year-old striker, has joined Fulham from Hampton & Richmond Borough.
Decent bets
Portsmouth look set to sign Javier Saviola on loan from Real Madrid until the end of the season. The Argentina forward, 27, is due to watch from the Fratton Park stands when Portsmouth play Aston Villa tonight.
Wigan Athletic have expressed an interest in Fabián Cubero, the Vélez Sársfield midfield player and captain, as a possible replacement for Wilson Palacios, who joined Tottenham for £14 million last week. Cubero would be offered a loan move, with a view to a permanent deal. Sunderland are in talks with West Ham to sign Calum Davenport, the defender.
Middlesbrough have renewed their longstanding interest in James Harper and hope to sign the Reading midfield player for a fee of about £5 million.
Long shots
Newcastle United have expressed an interest in Nedum Onuoha, the Manchester City defender.
0 comments:
Post a Comment